The Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde has declared Friday a half working day for civil servants in the state.

Makinde made this known in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Taiwo Adisa.

According to him, this is to allow the civil and public servants prepare for the gubernatorial and state houses of assembly elections in the state.

Makinde maintained that the approval, according to a circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Olubanwo Adeosun, was to enable civil and public servants in the state, who may wish to travel and vote on Saturday, to do so.

He said that the workers are expected to close at 12pm, adding that only essential workers are expected to remain at their duty posts beyond 12pm on Friday.

“Oyo State Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, in his commitment to ensuring the participation of Public and Civil Servants in the state in the upcoming Governorship and House of Assembly election, has graciously approved the declaration of half day at work on Friday, 17th March, 2023.

“Flowing from the above, Government offices are to close by 12 noon, on Friday, 17th March, 2023, while staff covering essential services are expected to remain at their duty posts”, the statement reads.

Thelagostimes reports that the elections would be held in all 33 local government areas in the state.